The MOOD Podcast
Arts
About
The MOOD Podcast is a long-form conversation series exploring photography, creativity, identity, and the inner life of artists. Hosted by Matt Jacob, the show moves beyond technique and trends to examine why people make work, how creative voices are formed, and what it takes to sustain a meaningful artistic life.Through thoughtful, unhurried conversations with photographers, filmmakers, and creative thinkers from around the world, the podcast explores themes of process, mental health, ethics, purpose, legacy, and the tension between art and industry. Episodes are grounded, reflective, and often philosophical, offering listeners provocation of thought rather than formulaic answers to copy...
Episodes
- Pricing, Prestige & The Business Of Photography - Miriam Schulman, E115
In this episode, Miriam Schulman discusses strategies for photography pricing, selling art online, attracting collectors, and building a sustainable photography business. She shares frameworks for photographers to price their work and find…
- The Psychological Trap Quietly Destroying Your Photography - Moments of Mood 3.4
In this episode, Matt explores the psychological trap in modern photography, where photographers often seek external validation for their work. He examines the impact of this need for proof on a photographer's creative journey and self-per…
- Mark Power - 14 Years Photographing America, The Democracy of Photography & Why Stillness Matters More Than The Decisive Moment, E114
On The MOOD Podcast, Magnum photographer Mark Power discusses his 14 years photographing America for his series 'Good Morning, America'. He shares insights into his creative process, career trajectory, and perspective on documentary photog…
- Chico Review, part 2 - What a Portfolio Review Taught Me About My Photography (That 10 Years Didn't)
This episode of The MOOD Podcast features Matt's experiences at the Chico Review, a photography portfolio review event. He shares insights from conversations with various photographers and discusses topics related to documentary, photobook…
- Chico Review 2026 - part 1: Why Feedback Beats 10,000 Followers
The host discusses their experience at the Chico Review 2026, an annual photography portfolio review. They share insights into breakthrough moments, challenges, and how the feedback received transformed their approach to photography and bo…
- Every Photo Is a Crime Scene - Brad Zellar on How He Reads Photography and Inspects an Image, E111
Brad Zellar joins The MOOD Podcast to discuss photography, photo books, and visual culture. He shares his insights on the future of photography, the importance of obsession, and what makes an image unforgettable. The conversation also cove…
- Before You Improve Your Photography, Read Yourself First - Moments of Mood, 3.3
This episode of The MOOD Podcast discusses why self-awareness is crucial for meaningful photography. It explores how understanding one's own patterns and motivations can lead to more coherent and authentic creative work, rather than focusi…
- “25 Years With National Geographic” Joe McNally on What Photography Lost (And What It Gained) - E110
Joe McNally, a professional photographer known for his work with National Geographic, joins The MOOD Podcast to discuss his career, the evolution of photography, and the impact of AI on the industry. He also shares insights on what disting…
- The Mindset of a Hasselblad Master Photographer - Tina Signesdottir, E109
In this episode, Hasselblad Master Tina Signesdottir joins "The MOOD Podcast" to discuss her journey as a fine art portrait photographer. She delves into the origins of her work, the significance of natural light, and the emotional intimac…
- Your Story Isn’t Needed - Pie Aerts Finds Meaning Within The Pressure Machine Of Photography, E108
In this episode, photographer Pie Aerts discusses his work in documentary and wildlife photography, his conservation efforts including Prints for Wildlife, and his long-term project COIRÓN. He shares insights on the philosophies, struggles…
- Finding Contentment, Craft, And Community In Photography - Answering Your Questions! Moments of Mood, 3.2
This episode of The MOOD Podcast features an "Ask Me Anything" session focused on finding contentment, craft, and community in photography. It explores how small rituals, sharper definitions, and a steady inner compass can impact art and d…
- Why Most Photographers Never Begin - Wesley Verhoeve, E107
In this episode of The MOOD Podcast, Wesley Verhoeve talks about why many photographers struggle with self-doubt and overthinking. He emphasizes that confidence is built by doing, not by waiting to be "ready," and discusses his photo books…
- The Best Bits of 2025 - Moments of Mood, 3.1
This episode of The MOOD Podcast looks back at 2025, covering themes like effective education for creatives, strategic pricing for freelancers, and the impact of empathy in photography. It also delves into long-form projects, the evolution…
- Why The Only Reason You Should Be a Photographer is Obsession - Jesse Lenz: E106
Jesse Lenz, photographer and publisher, joins The MOOD Podcast to discuss the role of obsession in art, the importance of photobooks, and building a sustainable artistic life. He shares insights on art as devotion and creating work for one…
- Why Nobody Cares About Your Photography
This episode discusses why indifference is prevalent in modern photography. It explores what genuine care for one's work entails, the pitfalls of chasing attention, and the deeper responsibilities artists have in a content-saturated world.
- The Photographer Who Puts Humanity on Trial: Nick Brandt on Sentience, Power, and Responsibility, E105
This episode of The MOOD Podcast features British photographer Nick Brandt discussing his work, climate change, and the role of photography. He shares his core philosophy and insights into projects like "The Day May Break" and "The Echo of…
- The Collapse of the American Dream - Photography as Witness: Bryan Schutmaat, E104
Bryan Schutmaat, a photographer and publisher, talks about his work which focuses on the American West, photography as a witness, and the creation of photobooks. He discusses building creative connections in photography and the philosophy…
- What Can We Trust About The Past And Why It Still Shapes Our Work: Kent Andreasen, EP103
Kent Andreasen joins The MOOD Podcast to discuss his photobook, "Memory Bank," which explores memory, trauma, and photography. He shares insights into South Africa's creative landscape, the impact of AI on visual arts, and the therapeutic…
- How Photography Helped Him Survive Not Belonging Anywhere: Marshall To, EO102
Marshall To, a photographer and author of 'Blank Notes,' discusses his photobook, which explores themes of ancestry, memory, and identity shaped by his upbringing as the son of Chinese immigrants and his Taoist family's beliefs. He talks a…
- Why Photography Works Better When You Stop Faking It - Phil Sharp, E101
Phil Sharp, an award-winning British portrait photographer, shares insights on the human core of portrait photography. He discusses creating authentic portraits by focusing on connection and sincere emotion, challenging traditional views o…
- Do you need a massive following to build a sustainable creative career? Moments of Mood 3.0
This episode of The MOOD Podcast explores how to build a sustainable creative career and monetize artistic passions. Strategies for diversifying income streams, attracting clients, and balancing art with financial stability are discussed t…
- Is Creativity Enough? Chris Do's advice for creatives, content, and The Futur - E100
Chris Do, founder of The Futur, discusses how creatives can build profitable careers. He offers advice on pricing, content, combatting burnout, and turning content into clients.
- How to Stay Relevant as a Photographer in the Age of AI , Moments of Mood 2.9
This episode of The MOOD Podcast discusses how photographers can remain relevant in the age of AI. It focuses on the importance of human creativity, individual voice, and building a brand that AI cannot replicate, emphasizing that humanity…
- Ami Vitale's Vision to Use Photography for Real-World Impact, E099
Ami Vitale, National Geographic photographer and Vital Impacts founder, discusses her journey from covering conflict to conservation. She shares insights on ethical storytelling, the northern white rhino project, and how photography can in…
- The Secret Behind Joel Grimes’ Iconic Photography Style, E098
This episode of The MOOD Podcast features photographer Joel Grimes, who discusses his iconic photography style, focusing on his use of light and shadow to create illusions. He shares insights into his creative process and techniques for ca…
- The Reality of Finding Your Voice as a Photographer - Ed Sykes, E097
In this episode of The MOOD Podcast, Ed Sykes shares his evolution as a photographer, detailing his experiences in journalistic and fashion photography. He explains his transition to a more authentic practice, focusing on landscapes, clima…
- Ask Me Anything: Everything You Wanted to Know About Life & Photography - Moments of Mood, 2.8
This episode of The MOOD Podcast features an Ask Me Anything (AMA) with the host. The host discusses photography, creativity, motivations, struggles, and personal growth, sharing insights and experiences.
- The Truth About Building a Career in Photography - Vanessa Joy E096
In this episode of The MOOD Podcast, Vanessa Joy, a renowned wedding photographer, educator, and entrepreneur, shares her journey of building a successful photography business over decades. She discusses the integration of art, business, a…
- Why Most Creatives Burn Out While Building a Business - Shane Vitaly, E095
On The MOOD Podcast, Shane Vitaly, founder of Clocks and Colours, Vitaly, and Etah Love, shares his journey of building a creative empire and the challenges of being a CEO. He discusses balancing creativity with business demands and avoidi…
- What Happens When Architecture Meets the Camera? - Stephen Karlisch, E094
Stephen Karlisch joins The MOOD Podcast to discuss his philosophy and craft in architectural and interior photography. He shares insights on creating timeless work, the industry's evolution, and the collaborative process with designers and…
- The Performance Trap and Creative Amnesia - Moments of Mood, 2.7
The MOOD Podcast discusses how focusing on performance rather than connection can lead to creative amnesia. The episode explores ways to strip away performance and rediscover authentic creative expression, emphasizing that creativity is a…
- Searching for Lost Color: Jake Paul White, E093
Jake Paul White, a British painter, talks about his path to becoming a full-time artist. He shares his thoughts on creativity, working with natural pigments, and the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success. The episode co…
- How I’d Learn Photography in 2025 (If I Were Starting from Scratch) - Moments of Mood, 2.6
This episode of The MOOD Podcast discusses how to learn photography in 2025, focusing on experience and artistic identity rather than traditional education. It explores building photography skills from the ground up, emphasizing honesty, c…
- If You Feel Blocked Creatively, This Might Be Why: Ryan Moresby-White, EO92
In this episode of The MOOD Podcast, Ryan Moresby-White explores the connection between unresolved childhood wounds and creative blocks. He discusses how healing the nervous system can lead to artistic freedom and the importance of confron…
- The number one reason you can't find your voice as an artist, and how I found mine - Moments of Mood, 2.5
This episode of The MOOD Podcast presents a keynote speech from the Global Possibilities Summit about finding one's voice as an artist. The speaker shares a personal journey of rediscovering purpose through art after experiencing cancer an…
- Think You’re Not Ready? This Photographer Says Start Anyway - Mitchell Kanashkevich, E091
Mitchell Kanashkevich, a travel and documentary photographer, joins The MOOD Podcast to discuss his two-decade career, his human-first approach to image-making, and the evolution of his craft. He shares insights on building trust, ethical…
- From Private Jets to Creative Freedom: My $0 to Studio Life Story - Moments of Mood 2.4
This episode of The MOOD Podcast features a personal story about leaving an aviation career to pursue creative freedom. The host discusses the journey of becoming a full-time creative, including overcoming challenges and finding an authent…
- How to Find Your Voice as an Artist - Jaymin Patel, EO90
In this episode of The MOOD Podcast, Jaymin Patel, a global speaker and spiritual mentor, discusses how artists can find their authentic voice and overcome fear. He shares insights on living, creating, and leading with purpose, and practic…
- The Photography lessons that changed everything for me - Moments of Mood, 2.3.
In this episode of The MOOD Podcast, the host recounts a photography workshop that reshaped their approach to photography, art, and life. The discussion covers shaping light, building trust, the power of presence, creative ego, and practic…
- The Hidden Cost of Chasing Success in Photography: What They Don’t Tell You - Erik Almas, E89
Erik Almas, a photographer with a 25-year career, discusses the challenges and changes in the photography industry. He shares insights on artistic identity, mentorship, burnout, and the pursuit of meaning beyond photography. The conversati…
- The Hidden Impact of Tariffs on Photography - is it too late? Moments of Mood, 2.2
This episode of The MOOD Podcast discusses the potential impact of tariffs on the photography industry. It examines how these tariffs could affect gear prices, client bookings, and various aspects for both professional and hobbyist photogr…
- From Chronic Pain to Creative Power: Simon Baxter, EO88
On The MOOD Podcast, Simon Baxter, a woodland photographer, shares his journey from chronic pain to creative power. He discusses the emotional connection in his photography, the therapeutic benefits of forest environments, and focusing on…
- Why Trust Matters More Than Technique in Portrait Photography - Moments of Mood, 2.1
This episode of The MOOD Podcast discusses how to achieve better portraits. It emphasizes that connection and trust with the subject are more crucial than photographic equipment or lighting techniques.
- How One Mindset Shift Changed Everything - Cam Stables, EO87
Cam Stables shares insights from his journey in filmmaking and photography, emphasizing authenticity and emotional impact. He discusses the highs and lows of a creative career, the role of travel in creativity, and advice for aspiring crea…
- Rediscovering Meaning in a World of Images - Moments of Mood, 2.0
This episode of The MOOD Podcast discusses rediscovering meaning in photography beyond aesthetics. It emphasizes the importance of personal connection and intention in creating lasting images.
- Why I quit Photography and Came Back Stronger - Cam Vaughne, EO86
Cultural photographer Cam Vaughne rejoins The MOOD Podcast to discuss his experiences since his first appearance, including stepping away from photography and returning with a renewed perspective. He shares how personal hardships, the impa…
- The Biggest Lie in Photography Education: Joe Edelman, EO85
Joe Edelman discusses the challenges and misconceptions in contemporary photography education, including the emphasis on selling, the role of social media, and the distinction between amateur and professional photographers. He also offers…
- From Avedon’s Shadow to Four Decades of Immortal Frames - Richard Corman, EO84
Richard Corman, a photographer trained by Richard Avedon, shares insights from his four-decade career. He discusses photographing figures like Madonna and Muhammad Ali, the evolution of photography, and the importance of human connection i…
- Can Filmmaking Change Lives? Exploring Indi Casa's Moving Journey, EO83
Indi Casa shares his filmmaking journey, including the transition to documentary storytelling and the challenges of ethical filmmaking. He discusses his upcoming documentary, Indyquay, which focuses on his search for family, identity, and…
- The Dark Truth of Documenting Humanity: Natalie Keyssar, EO82
Natalie Keyssar, a documentary photographer, joins The MOOD Podcast to discuss the ethical responsibilities of photojournalism, the nuances of storytelling, and the balance between aesthetics and ethics in her work. She shares her experien…